Cold Specks is the stage name of Ladan Hussein, a Somali-Canadian singer-songwriter who was previously known as Al Spx. Her music has been described as “doom-soul,” blending elements of soul with darker, more introspective themes.
Hussein was born in Toronto and began her musical career in 2011. The name “Cold Specks” is derived from a line in James Joyce’s novel “Ulysses.”
Born all in the dark wormy earth, cold specks of fire, evil, lights shining in the darkness.
James Joyce’s novel Ulysses
I dig it. I get it. Man, do I feel that.
Throughout her career, Cold Specks has been recognized for her unique sound, poetic lyrics, and the emotional depth of her music, establishing herself as a notable figure in the Canadian indie music scene.
Returning after 7 years
Canadian singer, songwriter and producer Cold Specks has returned with new track, “How It Feels,” her first release in seven years. “How It Feels” is a raw and intimate reminder of Al Spx’ powerful voice, and finds the artist assuredly looking back on a difficult period in her life, with a clarity that time often brings to events.
“How It Feels” is the first new music from Cold Specks since 2017’s Fool’s Paradise. It is a confident reminder of her electrifying vocals, first glimpsed on an unforgettable a capella performance on Later… with Jools Holland in 2011.
Written with Chantal Kreviazuk (Drake / Kendrick Lamar), Spx explains, “How it Feels was written in 2019 at a time when I was struggling with money. I was struggling with my mind as well, and I was reflecting on my experiences. It was written one magical night in the dead of winter in a studio around midnight. It came together quite easily and Chantal is a gem.” The track features piano by Johnny Spence, strings by composer Owen Pallett and brass by long-time collaborator Terry Edwards.
Cultural influence
Ladan Hussein’s Somali heritage has significantly influenced her music, especially in her album “Fool’s Paradise” and her evolution as an artist. Learning about her father’s involvement in a Somali funk band called Iftin in the 1970s deepened her connection to Somali musical heritage. This discovery led her to explore more of Somalia’s musical past. Through exploring her Somali heritage, Hussein found a deeper sense of self-love and understanding of her identity, which is reflected in her music and public persona.
This embrace of her Somali heritage represents a significant evolution in Hussein’s artistry, moving from her earlier, more guarded approach to a more open and culturally rich expression of her identity through music.
Cold Specks sounds like…
Deep south, goth-tinged indie folk. Her sound is soulful, gospel-inspired, something that truly sets her apart from the rest. Her music has a dimension to it, texture, it’s almost tactile. That’s what it sounds like, that’s how it feels.
Purchase or stream “How It Feels” HERE.
Fever dreams and shattered hearts
Voices stop me every start
Easy come, easy go
I’m not greedy I don’t need to bring it on forever
I just want to remember how it feels
“How It Feels” by Cold Specks
